Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Reaffirms A-State's Accreditation for Next 10 Years

JONESBORO – The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Arkansas State University's institutional accrediting body, has notified Chancellor Todd Shields of its decision to accept the accreditation team's report on A-State, thereby reaffirming the institution's accreditation. The HLC team visited campus in April for a comprehensive evaluation.

A letter from Barbara Gellman-Danley, HLC president, stated that the HLC's Institutional Actions Council (IAC) voted last week to affirm accreditation under the "Open Pathway" through the 2033-2034 academic year.

The Open Pathway, which A-State was recently approved to join, gives the university the opportunity to pursue improvement projects that address current needs and goals.

Dr. Shields said: "Receiving reaffirmation of accreditation for the coming decade is critical to Arkansas State University's continued success, as it affirms our commitment to our mission and values."

In today's higher education environment, the HLC carries additional responsibilities from the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and state coordinating/governing boards such as the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

Shields continued: "Going forward, A-State will build on this success by focusing on our strategic priorities of enhancing academic programs, student support services, community engagement and industry partnerships to serve our students and the state of Arkansas."

Dr. Melanie Wicinski, accreditation liaison officer at A-State, said more than 50 faculty, staff and students served on six committees. Those involved worked to write the assurance argument, led by the Office of Accreditation and Assessment.

Wicinski, associate provost for accreditation and assessment, said: "This impressive outcome is a testament to the dedication and hard work of members of the university community and reflects the exceptional work being done at Arkansas State University to ensure the success of our student body."

Dr. Calvin White Jr., chancellor and executive vice chancellor, further emphasized the importance of the work carried out by the accreditation and assessment team for A-State's future.

"The renewal of HLC certification is a testament to the outstanding work of Dr. Melanie Wicinski and her team, who guided A-State through the review process. It also reflects the collaborative efforts of students, faculty and staff who contributed to our institution's comprehensive report. HLC's peer reviewers recognized their excellent teamwork and the clear vision they have for our university," White said.

On the path to achieving certification, Wicinski said a team of five people from peer or aspirational universities visited campus and completed the report for the HLC. The team interviewed numerous individuals within the community.

The HLC accredits institutions, not individual academic programs. Arkansas State was first accredited in 1928 and has been continuously accredited ever since.